So, the topics about the Arduboy and the Analogue Pocket have got me thinking about whether or not I should invest in some of the fancy GBA retrofits and upgrade tech that’s out there– things like upgraded screens, rechargeable batteries, and upgraded sound components. I thought I’d start a new thread to keep from going too OT on those other threads.
I’m in a weird spot for the GBA: I have about 100 games for it, many of which I love, and about 50 Gameboy/GBC games on top of that, none of which I can currently play since all of my GBA hardware has some issue or other.
I’m thinking in particular of Retro Six’s components (https://retrosix.co.uk/Game-Boy-Advance-c54012087). For an appalling amount of money, they’ll sell you a completely upgraded original GBA (the variant I personally prefer) that includes nice quality of life things, like a modern display, a USB-C rechargeable battery, and a fancier speaker. You can also buy individual parts to do your own upgrade, which are generally cheaper.
What I was wondering was if anyone’s had experience with these or alternates, and if anyone’s got opinions on this kind of upgraded GBA experience as opposed to the other route of a completely brand new device that’s built from the ground up, like the Analogue Pocket. Personally speaking, I don’t love the third kind of alternative, devices that are just emulation boxes. I know these give the most versatile experience, but my history with devices like the GP2X Caanoo have been pretty frustrating for all kinds of reasons, mostly involving the rom and emulator upgrade and maintenance loop).
Anyway, I’d like to consider spending money on a way to play all these games I’m sitting on, and I’d love everyone’s feedback on their own experiences.